Angela Cullen, the long-time physiotherapist, and trainer of Lewis Hamilton has finally broken her silence after the news of her departure from Mercedes was confirmed. The successful partnership between the two has spanned seven years, and on March 17, Hamilton expressed his admiration for Cullen on social media.
From the statements made by Lewis Hamilton and Cullen, it is apparent that the latter is not leaving because of any personal issues with Hamilton, but rather, she is departing to pursue her own dreams which can be proved by the Briton’s comment that stated: “as she takes her next steps to pursue her dreams“. In her statement, Angela Cullen mentioned that she was, “off on my next adventure.”
Toto Wolff on Lewis Hamilton splitting with Angela Cullen:
— AnythingF1 (@AnythingF1_) March 18, 2023
“Angela was part of the gang for a long time. I think in every team, whether that is his close circle, or also in the wider group, this is not a static situation that you can freeze, because we all develop as people.… pic.twitter.com/qe6knWF0kq
Therefore, this farewell must be bittersweet but necessary. Angela will be missed, not only by Hamilton but also in the paddock and among the fans. She was a popular figure with Lewis and Mercedes’ fanbase. As of now, it is unclear what Cullen’s exact plans are, but it is known that she is leaving her role to pursue her dreams and it will be an interesting sight to witness where the New Zealander is headed.
Angela Cullen’s relationship with Lewis Hamilton
Before retiring from F1, Angela Cullen made a statement on social media revealing her experience and the fact that exactly seven years earlier she started her journey at the Australian GP, and now she is excited to embark on a new journey. She thanked the Mercedes team, who have been like family to her over the past seven years, and also Hamilton for his unwavering support, belief, and inspiration, highlighting his limitless potential. Angela ended her statement with an encouraging message, “Dream big. As Dreams do come true. Forever by your side. STILL WE RISE.“
Angela Cullen was not only Lewis Hamilton’s performance coach but also his confidante and one of his closest allies in the paddock. The two were often seen together in the paddock, and Cullen would be seen cheering for the Briton from the Mercedes garage. Hamilton has previously described her as “one of the greatest things that’s ever happened” to him, and they even have matching “Loyalty” tattoos.
Lewis Hamilton about Angela Cullen pic.twitter.com/7q1X1VyZM7
— F1 To Rule Them All (@F1RulesMedia) March 18, 2023
Their close relationship has been evident throughout the years, and it must’ve been tough for them to part ways. It is safe to say that Cullen played a pivotal role in Hamilton’s success, and the seven-time world champion has acknowledged it with a touching farewell message for her on Instagram.
She said, “For the last seven years [Cullen] has been by my side, pushing me to be the best version of myself. I am a stronger athlete and a better person because of her. So today I hope you’ll join me in wishing her the very best as she takes her next steps to pursue her dreams. Thank you for everything Ang, I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for you.”
Cullen’s departure from Mercedes marks the end of a successful partnership that spanned seven years. While it might have been a tough call, it is clear that Cullen and Hamilton’s bond will remain strong with being each other’s hype man.